Question

What was the reason for extinction of more than 200 species of Cichlid fish in Lake Victoria?

• A. Co-extinction
• B. Alien species invasion
• C. Overexploitation
• D. Habitat loss

Hint:

Alien species introduction is one of the major threats to biodiversity worldwide.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Background.
Lake Victoria, one of the largest lakes in Africa, was once home to hundreds of endemic Cichlid fish species.
Step 2: Cause of extinction.
The introduction of the alien species Nile Perch in Lake Victoria led to the extinction of more than 200 species of Cichlids. The Nile Perch acted as a predator and outcompeted the native fish.
Step 3: Analyzing options.
(A) Co-extinction: Incorrect — No evidence of linked species extinction here.
(B) Alien species invasion: Correct — Nile Perch invasion was the main cause.
(C) Overexploitation: Incorrect — Though fishing occurs, it wasn’t the major cause.
(D) Habitat loss: Incorrect — The environment remained largely intact.
Step 4: Conclusion.
Hence, the extinction of Cichlid fishes was due to alien species invasion.